On Nov. 9 the Toronto Transit Commission along with Brown and Storey Architects held a public meeting to inform people on the progress of the landscape design that will surround the future streetcar storage facility and Leslie and Lake Shore.
Brown and Storey Architects won the Landscape Design Competition held last year.
On display were art renderings of how they plan to beautify both the Leslie Street side of the facility and the Lakeshore Boulevard side.
A variety of tree species were carefully selected to be planted in certain patterns, as well as tall grasses and perennials.
“It will be a park in its own right,” said Jocelyn Hirtes of Scott Torrace Landscape Architects during the presentation.
The design illustrations show a wall surrounding the streetcar yard panelled and red in colour. James Brown of Brown and Storey Architects explained how the wall will also have ‘green’ sections which will have plants and vines growing on its surface.
“It will be rhythmically tied together,” said Brown adding that “it will play with light and shadow.”
Some of the attendees were concerned about the wall being an eye-sore, especially in the winter time when the leaves no longer block the view.
Ward 32 councillor Mary-Margaret McMahon also suggested adding windows or transparent panels to the wall to allow curious passerbys to observe the activity inside the facility, particularly children.
The main intent by the designers is to attract wildlife such as birds and insects as well as people. In addition to the Martin Goodman Trail there will be a walking path through the Leslie side of the park with resting areas.
TTC’s Senior Project Manager Akram Yoannis said the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2013 or beginning of 2014.
Did you enjoy this article? Become a Beach Metro Community News Supporter today! For 50 years, we have worked hard to be the eyes and ears in your community, inform you of upcoming events, and let you know what and who is making a difference. We cover the big stories as well as the little things that often matter the most. CLICK HERE to support your Beach Metro Community News!
